Social Media Meltdown 

Confession: I spend to much time on social media.

I would probably cringe if I knew the amount of time I spent staring at a screen or checking my social media accounts. In my defense, I haven’t always been social media obsessed. In fact, I boycotted Facebook for several years when I was younger… I know I’m such a rebel. I do take into account that one of the reasons I have been spending more time on social media is Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots. I love this blog and want to see it succeed and that requires time and dedication. I am hard pressed for time due to having a full time job and being a mother (this is not a poor me statement- just a fact). So any chance I have to squeeze in some blogging I do it. 

As a self proclaimed lifestyle/fashion blogger it is really important to me that my pictures and my content be my own. I want this website/blog to be a reflection of me. Of the person I think I am and who I am rediscovering after motherhood. I feel like as you get older life becomes more about other’s and less about yourself and while that’s okay it can be paralyzing too. 

Recently, I hit a huge blogging rut. I just kept looking up things on social media hoping that something would spark my imagination and I would come up with something “blog worthy.” But weeks passed and I had nothing. And I was so upset and disappointed. I thought this is suppose to be fun not stressful damn it! So I looked for other things to fill my “me time” instead of social media. (Cause let’s face it folks social media is great but sometimes it’s a mind fuck.) Just saying. So these past couple weeks I found other options to fill up my time and my soul. I wanted to share my ideas-just in case you think maybe social media has consumed to much of your time as well. 

Here Goes—

  1. Adult Coloring Book – Did you color as a child?? I did and I loved it. There was something so special about a new set of crayons and a coloring book.  Coloring for me is relaxing and satisfying. I don’t think people realized all the benefits coloring had until recently. I spend some time at night, after my daughter goes to sleep, coloring. It’s been a nice and quiet escape. I get a break from my thoughts and actually have something to show for it… 
    I received this book as a gift awhile back but Amazon has a lot of similar ones if you are interested!
  2. Audio Books– I promise this is not an endorsement;) I just recently subscribed to http://www.audible.com and I love it! There are some books that I really wanted to read but there was not enough time in the day. I recently took into account that I spend about an hour in the car each day driving to and from work. So why not fill that up with something enjoyable?? Right now I’m listening to “The Devil in the White City”, by Erik Larson. It’s a non-fiction book about the 1893 Chicago Worlds Fair and a serial killer that used the fair to his advantage. I love the historical aspect of it and all the drama;) I also love getting into the car to drive to work… I know this seems wrong doesn’t it? Lol 
  3. Plants– Do you have any plants at home? I have a terrible track record with plants, but I decided that I was going to be more accountable and give it another shot. So I purchased some mums-I’m starting simple.  I have been taking care of them faithfully each morning. I’ve found some satisfaction in this recent venture so I wanted to share this simple option for folks. Just a little bit of love and you get a beautiful result to enjoy.
    I’m so proud of this beautiful Mum!! Flower Nerd Alert.
  4. Exercise–  I will admit that this has been a struggle for me lately. I love to run and used to the gym somewhat regularly to get my workout in. I have only made it there a couple of times lately, but I can tell the difference when I do. In the past, I have signed myself up for a race so I make myself go to the gym. But this time around I’m not there yet, but it maybe it will come. 
  5. Reading– Apart from listening to Audible, I have started to read before I go to bed at night —instead of being on my phone. I love to read but sometimes the phone seemed easier?? If that makes sense? I will admit reading has been better for my sleep cycle. It’s also enjoyable. Which is a win/win in my book (no pun intended). 

    I hope this has been helpful in some small way- even if you’re not having a “social media meltdown.” We all go through different challenges in life but sometimes sharing the struggle can bring a feeling of kinship and normalicy.  

    Love, 

    Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots💗☕️
    Disclaimer- All thoughts and ideas are my own – I’m no expert;) I’m not receiving any financial compensation for this post- it’s purely my experience. 

    Mix & Match


    My family and I recently went to Kansas City, MO for a short weekend trip. We made a quick stop at Legends Outlet Mall. If you are ever in that area this is such a cute place to stop and shop, eat, and find a few deals along the way!! Side note- it’s an outdoor mall so maybe visit spring, summer, fall and not in the dead of winter. Or maybe you are a really dedicated shopper and don’t care. I raise my glass to you:) I included a link below with info and directions if you want to know a little bit more. 

    https://www.google.com/search?q=legends%20shopping%20kansas%20city

    Have I mentioned I love shopping for my daughter?? It’s better than shopping for myself. She is growing like a weed so any clothing I buy will be exclusively for that present season and not a minute longer. So I am mindful not to break the bank on clothing . But sometimes I don’t care. If I want to buy her Nike shoes that she will only wear for the better part of 6 months then I’m doing it. I know… total badass over here;) However, it’s good to have some restraint when it comes to clothing and figure out how to maximize your purchases. 

    We stopped at Old Navy to look for some fall clothing for my daughter. I have found that Old Navy has really affordable, on trend, durable clothing. I am here to tell you that I had to dig deep to find some restraint. There are sooooo many cute kids clothes there right now!! So I thought I would share some of the pieces that I picked and how they can be worn multiple ways:) It’s ok to spend money but see if you can make that money stretch a little by buying pieces that are interchangeable that makes all the difference. I bought 2 tops, 3 dresses, 3 pairs of pants, and boots. Out of that, I can mix and match and make roughly 14 outfits. I snapped some very ameatur outfit photos at the beginning and also below – so have a laugh and hopefully find some outfit inspiration! 

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    Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots💗☕️

    Links to clothes ⬇️

    Stay Gold- http://shopstyle.it/l/if2i

    Chambray Dress- http://shopstyle.it/l/if2t

    Burgundy Leggings (several colors) – http://shopstyle.it/l/if2D

    Skinny Pull On Jeggings ( several colors) – http://shopstyle.it/l/if36

    Similar Boots – http://shopstyle.it/l/ihmo

    Relaxed Cowl Neck- http://shopstyle.it/l/ihkP

    Peplum Top- http://shopstyle.it/l/ihpP

    Jeans- http://shopstyle.it/l/ihqe

    (Affiliate Links) Clicking on or purchasing anything from these links will result in Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots earning financial compensation. 

    So Fall, So Good

    Get ready.. it’s about to be the invasion of pumpkin flavored everything. Even if it’s a bad idea.. it will be pumpkin flavored. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy a good pumpkin pie, muffin, latte, and maybe even a cookie or two. But let’s be realistic, no one can survive on pumpkin based food alone. I decided to round up my favorite fall recipes and put them on the blog. I’ve gathered recipes (from Pinterest) over the years and these are some of my favorites. Public Service Announcement: I am no gourmet chef but if I can make these so can you;)

    Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage

    Ingredients

    • 1(19-ounce) bag frozen cheese tortellini
    • 1 pound sausage (preferably Italian- I used mild Italian turkey sausage)
    • 1 bag fresh spinach
    • 2 can Italian style diced tomatoes
    • 2 (12 ounce) cans low-fat chicken broth
    • 1 (8-ounce) cream cheese, cut into cubes

    Directions

    Brown the sausage on the stove top until cooked and crumbled. Drain the excess grease.

    Add the sausage and remaining ingredients to a 6 quart slow cooker. Stir all the ingredients. (just a side note- the spinach seems overwhelming at first but don’t worry it will shrink quickly)

    Cook in the crock pot, on Low for 5 hours, stirring occasionally during cooking.

    I found this recipe off of Pinterest at https://www.keyingredient.com/ under the user ukiahgal67. Just wanted to give credit where credit is due!! Looks like there is a bunch of other great recipes there so if you get a chance check it out.

    Cooking in the crockpot is great if you have a busy schedule or a 2 year old. Either way crockpots are awesome!
    This is a hearty and very filling dish!! It would pair well with a red wine-if you are into that sort of thing;)

    On to the most important part of this blog post……DESSERT!!!

    Bourbon and Brown Sugar Peach Pie

    Ingredients

    Pie Crust (9- inch lattice pie)

    • 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
    • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
    • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
    • 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
    • 1 cup cold water
    • 1/4/ cup apple cider vinegar
    • 1 cup ice

    Bourbon and Brown Sugar Peach Filling (makes enough for (9-inch lattice pie)

    • 1 pound fresh, ripe peaches (about 1 1/2 cups to 2 cups sliced) slice into 1/2 and 1 inch chunks
    • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
    • 1 1/2 “heaping” tablespoons brown sugar
    • 1 tablespoon bourbon
    • generous pinch of kosher salt
    • 1 large egg
    • granulated sugar, for sprinkling

    I found this recipe on Pinterest from http://www.hummingbirdhigh.com/?m=1. She deserves all the credit for this wonderful recipe. I am going to include a link below to her recipe directions.

    Directions

    http://www.hummingbirdhigh.com/2015/08/bourbon-and-brown-sugar-peach-pie.html?m=1

    This was my first made from scratch pie and I really enjoyed making it. I’ll have to keep working on my dough and lattice top skills (shout out to all the ladies making pies from scratch, this is a lost art form).  The filling of this pie is absolutely delicious!🍑🍑


    Hope these recipes inspire you to think outside the pumpkin box this fall!! If you try these out let me know or post some pictures and tag me on Instagram or Facebook. Happy Fall Ya’ll 🍁🍁

    Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots xoxo

    Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots: Iowa State Fair Edition

    My summer is officially coming to a close but I can check the Iowa State Fair off my to do list. My family and I made it there last Saturday. It was everything I hoped it would be and more. Going on a Saturday was a little crazy. I think from now on I’ll continue my past tradition of going on a weekday.

    This was my daughter’s first Iowa State Fair and she loved it, like mother like daughter. It’s almost better experiencing things you love through your children. ❤️ Our first stop of the day was the petting zoo and Little Hands on the Farm. This was a first for me and even though I got peed on (long story) and felt like I was standing on the surface of the sun it was a good time.

    Another first this year was “The Big Slide.” Just to be clear, I love heights. But climbing to the top of that slide and feeling it sway ever so slightly is stomach dropping. But the ride down is worth it and so is hearing your daughter laugh. So naturally we went twice. Our next stop was the cattle, horses, sheep, and swine. So many animals, people, and smells. It’s really something to behold. We managed to see the Big Boar… damnnn son…. that guy was huge!!

    ​Clearly, by this point we had worked up an appetite. So we did what people at the fair do best–EAT.  We had mini donuts and garlic cheese curds!!!! Soooo yummy!!!! Yes, we ate other things. No shame in my fair food game. There was so many new foods this year like apple tacos, cookie dough, churro fries, and the Pork Almighty. Just to name a few.

    I know right.

    Food is the best.

     

    We stopped at the Bill Riley Talent show and watched some talented young Iowans sing, dance, and do some Yo-Yo tricks!! So cool. Ella loved it and started showing people her dance moves. I guess once you feel the rhythm there is no looking back. She got that from her mama…2 Legit to Quit….Hey..Hey -did you just sing that in your head??? Me too.

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    After Ella’s performance, we headed to the Varied Industries building to check out the Balloon Farm exhibit and what the vendors had to offer. This balloon situation was crazy cool. A picture does not do it justice but I snapped a few anyway. We also picked up a Hawkeye Football poster (a must have) and Ella got a sweet Hawkeye tattoo.

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    And then came nap time. For mama this meant eating ice cream and people watching. I could spend hours doing that… is it just me??? I love to do this anyplace but the fair is on a whole different level.

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    Last, but definitely not least, we hit the rides. They had a really cool system this year where you purchased a bracelet that had a small tag on it and you were able to reload credits for rides to the bracelet via an app on your smart phone!!  This worked perfectly and eliminated the waste and nuisance of tickets!! Also, the new location for the little kid rides was great. Ella and I enjoyed a selfie on the Ferris Wheel 🎡

    I’ll leave you with some –Fair Tips of Advice:

    1. Go to the Fair on a weekday. Seems less hectic and crowded. (My opinion)

    2. Go down the Big Slide it sways a little…but it’s a good time.

    3. Garlic Cheese curds always say YES.

    4. Try something new every year. Step out of your comfort zone. You will thank yourself.

    5. Bring extra clothes in case your toddler pees on you. Oh wait..maybe that’s just for me.

    6. Check out all the animals!!! So much hard work and dedication goes into those animals it’s truly amazing.

    7. If you haven’t been to the Fair for a couple of years I would encourage you to go and check it out. So much has been done to enhance the Fairgrounds and it’s something, as Iowans, we should be proud of.

    Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots 💗

    Talk Fall To ME

    I simply can not believe that Fall is right around the corner. I’m holding on to summer like it’s my morning coffee. But all signs point to the season’s change. In Iowa, The Iowa State Fair starts today and while that’s exciting it also tells me summer is at a close. My husband and I are hoping to take our daughter to her first Iowa State Fair!! Blog Post to follow on that– no self respecting Iowa blogger can not do a blog on the Iowa State Fair.. am I right?? I love the Fair, the food, the people. If you have never been to the Iowa State Fair put it on your bucket list!!

    Anyway, back to this Fall situation.  I am already thinking about cardigans, booties, and scarves. Social media is already blasting us with everything pumpkin spice so that also got me in the mood. I have been perusing my favorite brands/shops online and just thinking about my first fall purchase. So, I thought why not share what I’m looking at with all of you. It’s a small collection of boots, scarves, bags, cardigans, and jeans. It might give you some inspiration and help you find some deals out there too! Who doesn’t love a deal? Let me know if there is anything out there you are specifically looking for and I’d love to help you find it. Happy Fall🍁

    Love,

    Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots💗💗💗

    1. Urban Outtfitters Reversible Faux Tote Bag – http://shopstyle.it/l/eAOj

    img_5745

    2. BP Jemma Suede Clutch – http://shopstyle.it/l/eAOt
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    3. BP Foldover Crossbody Bag- http://shopstyle.it/l/eAuH

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    4. Blank NYC Ripped Skinny Jeans- http://shopstyle.it/l/eAu1

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    5. Paige High Waisted Undone Hem Skinny Jean- http://shopstyle.it/l/eAvq

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    6. Halogen Ruffle Sleeved Sweater- http://shopstyle.it/l/eAvB

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    7. Old Navy Chambray Shirt – http://shopstyle.it/l/eAvV

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    8. H&M – http://shopstyle.it/l/eAOY

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    9. Halogen Long Open Cardigan- http://shopstyle.it/l/eAwM

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    10. Martha Long Edge to Edge Grungy Cardigan- http://shopstyle.it/l/eAPf

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    11. H&M Long Cardigan – http://shopstyle.it/l/eAx4

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    12. BP Square Scarf – http://shopstyle.it/l/eAyr

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    13. BP Buffalo Check Scarf – http://shopstyle.it/l/eAy4

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    14. Vince Camuto Hadrien Boot – http://shopstyle.it/l/eAy4
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    15. Good Till the Last Raindrop – http://shopstyle.it/l/eAt9

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    16. Jessica Simpson Cherell Peep Toe – http://shopstyle.it/l/eAL4

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    17. Jessica Simpson Ciarah Winter Boot – http://shopstyle.it/l/eAOt

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    18. Old Navy Ruffled Chambray Shirt Dress- http://shopstyle.it/l/eABU
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    19. Old Navy Single Button Jersey Knit Blazer – http://shopstyle.it/l/eAB0

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    20. Kate Spade Marion’s Sunglasses – http://shopstyle.it/l/eAEe

    img_5747

    Antigua

    My husband and I recently returned from Sandals in Antigua. Luck was on our side because in the last couple of days they are talking about union strikes there. However, we made it back just in time to miss all that. Before we left for our trip I did some research about the resort. I was mostly looking for pictures—I’m a visual person. And to be honest, I wanted real deal images not the Sandals pictures. My search turned up very limited information and/or pictures. So I thought I would do a blog post with some photos and opinions of our experience at the resort.

    So a just a small backstory. We chose Sandals because we went to Sandals in St. Lucia (on our honeymoon 5 years ago) and had such a wonderful experience we wanted to venture someplace new but keep the quality that we had experienced with the resort chain. So after much deliberation we picked Antigua. We wanted a beautiful beach with clear water and Antigua had come highly recommended.

    When we arrived in Antigua it was a short 15-20 minute van ride to the resort. We were greeted by Sandals staff and given champagne while we completed our check in. Staff showed us to our room and provided us with some resort restaurant information. We spent the night checking out the resort and walking on the beach.

    img_5158
    My husband and I spent most of our time at the beach and by the pool. We were looking for relaxation-we have a two year old-what else is there to say?? Both of these spots are fantastic at this resort. The beach is gorgeous. FYI- It is a public beach so anyone can be on it. However, it was never crowded and the locals were respectful and accepted no for requests about purchasing goods or excursions. The water on this beach is so clear, warm, and salty. A beach lovers dream. The sand was white, cool, and soft. To date this is the most beautiful beach I have ever been on.


    Our pool experience was equally as great. The pool at this resort is massive (they have 3 smaller pools in addition to the main pool). We spent most our time in the main pool. There was plenty of lounge chairs so we were always able to get an umbrella if we wanted one for shade. The pool staff were always coming around asking if we needed a drink. The pool was clean and cool. And the swim up bar was fully stocked and made some great frozen drinks. My favorite drinks were Miami Vice & Hummingbird.

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    We also did some excursions on the island through Island Routes. One was an Eco Adventure Tour where we did snorkeling, caving, a small hike, and swimming. This was such a great way to see some of the island. I would highly recommended it. They also served us lunch and my husband said that was the best meal of our whole trip!!

    Our other excursion was zip-lining. Sorry – no photos from this one. I didn’t want to risk losing my phone. It was a fun time but I though zip-lining in St. Lucia was better. I feel like St. Lucia had better scenery and longer zip lines.

    Our trip was great overall. We were looking to relax and spend some quality time together and I think we achieved that. Our only thoughts at the end of the trip ( when comparing this to our last Sandals vacation) were that we did not think that the staff at Antigua were as friendly and accommodating as the staff in St. Lucia. In addition, the restaurants at Sandals in Antigua where not as good as the Sandals in St. Lucia.  The menu options were not as appealing to me and the freshness and preparation of the food was lacking. I would not trade the time or experience I had in Antigua. This world is to vast and beautiful to go the same place twice.

    Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots xoxo

    8d2f5994-a13f-4d87-a303-ecc9a9019291

    All experiences, thoughts, and opinions are my own~No endorsement of any kind.

    HEYI BackPack Diaper Bag


    Click on image for link to bag 

    I’m going to step into “Mama Mode” on the blog today to tell you about the HEYI Backpack Diaper Bag. I started searching for an alternative diaper bag after I realized the one I had was not functional for this stage of our lives. I needed something that let my hands be free, could keep things in order, and let my husband and I put some things in it if needed.

    After a LONG search, I settled on the gray and pink HEYI backpack from Amazon for $39.99. I must admit there were a lot of other companies selling similar bags, in a variety of colors, but this particular retailer had excellent reviews. Upon receiving the bag it came nicely packaged and in excellent condition. I took some of my own photos, I’m a visual person and sometimes online photos don’t do products justice. 

     


    I tested this backpack for the first time on our family trip to Kansas City this past weekend. It worked like a charm!!! I took it to a wedding, an aquarium,  zoo, and shopping. It was so comfortable to wear, which was a nice change from having a diaper bag hanging off my shoulder. The material is water resistant which was good since we got rained on at the zoo- such is our luck- and the bag held up nicely and everything in it was nice and dry.

    Here is a list of things I was able to put in the bag and still have some extra space if needed:

    • Sippy cup
    • Diapers
    • Wipes
    • Change of clothes
    • Snacks
    • Sunscreen
    • Hat
    • Phone/Wallet
    • Keys
    • Hand/Face wipes
    • Band Aids/Tylenol


    I am thinking about just switching to this bag full time as it worked so well. In addition, you might have noticed in one of the pictures that the bag is able to stand on its own due to having some boning in the top that keeps it open. Amazing. There is also a number of pockets which is great so you’re not digging for things all the time. Diaper bags are like black holes… no joke. 

    If you are searching for a backpack diaper bag or just a better diaper bag this one comes highly recommended and tested by me!! Hope this was helpful to everyone and if you have any questions please let me know!

    Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots 💗☕️

    Disclaimer: If the Amazon affiliate link at the top of the article is used to purchase this writer will receive a small financial compensation. All thoughts, picks, and opinions are my own and are not endorsed by any company. 

    Beautycounter 

    “You must do things you think you cannot do.”- Eleanor Roosevelt

    Some self disclosure, I am an insecure person. This at times holds me back from getting involved and doing things that I love or dare I say could be good at. It’s the fear of failing or being a failure. I will admit that I have gotten better about this, hence the creation of Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots. Starting a Midwest Lifestyle and Fashion blog was a little/big dream of mine. I’m still figuring out this blogging thing but I’m proud of what I have accomplished so far. Progress;)

    This brings me to the point of this blog post-Beautycounter. Never heard of it ??? Give me a few minutes and I’ll formally introduce you. And before you say that you don’t wear makeup, don’t need makeup, or simply don’t care-KEEP READING I PROMISE YOU WILL BE GLAD YOU DID.

    Let’s start with the mission of Beautycounter, “To get safer products into the hands of everyone.” Did you know that The United States has not passed a major federal law to regulate the safety of ingredients used in personal care products since 1938. Fact. There are over 80,000 chemicals on the market, inside your skin care and cosmetics, that do not have any safety data on them. If you are like me you probably never gave it a second thought. You go to the store and pick up the stuff you need (and have been using for years most likely) never giving it a second thought. If the stores have it on their shelves it must be safe…. Right?? This is not always the case. It turns out the Food and Drug Administration allows these chemicals to be used in products. These chemicals have been linked to cancer, infertility, hormone disruption, and the list goes on. I had no clue this was the case. So, I’ve decided to slowly switch out my products for safer. It won’t happen overnight and that’s okay-it’s progress. I’m just so thankful that I know. I’ve been using Beautycounter products for the last 4-5 months. I use the Kids Bath Collection on my daughter and it’s been awesome with her sensitive skin- and it’s SAFE. I’ve used the charcoal bar and the essential nourishing collection and really do notice a positive difference in my skin.  I’m very pleased with the performance of these products.

    So I took a leap of faith. I decided to become a consultant for Beautycounter. I can honestly say I have NEVER EVER done anything like this in my life. And I was hesitant to add another thing to my to do list, but I believe in this mission. The goal for me is simple-I want better for myself, my daughter, my family and friends, and the United States. I want people to have safe products to use. We deserve better.

    If you are interested in the products and want to learn more about Beautycounter- click on the link below. I’m always here for questions and if I don’t know the answer I will get it for you ASAP:)

    Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots xoxo

    Disclaimer- If you decide to purchase anything from the link below I will receive some financial compensation, as I am a consultant for Beautycounter. The factual information above can be found on the Beautycounter website and is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge. 

    thehttp://www.beautycounter.com/katherinegarrett?goto=katherinegarrett

    Snapshots of some of our awesome products!!

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    Color Pinch Cream Blusher
    Lip Sheer and Lip Gloss
    Kids Bath Collection- I use this on my daughter and I love it!!
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    Charcoal Cleansing Bar 

    Sunscreen Collection

    Top Five 

    Hello Everyone!! I haven’t done a post in awhile and I’ll be honest I go back and forth on what to write about A LOT. I overthink things. It’s a blessing and a curse. I do have some exciting things coming your way in the next couple weeks!!! But for now, I thought I’d share some of the fashion styles I’m loving right now💗

    1. Stripes & Florals

    LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this combination. Don’t be afraid to mix these patterns, within reason.(Some pattern mixing I see these days leaves me speechless. ) Anyway, give stripes and florals a try!! It’s a fun summer combo.



    2. Basic w/POP of color

    Throw on some black skinny jeans, grey v-neck tee, and fuschia flats. Or, maybe it’s white jeans, red shirt, and a turquoise necklace. The possibilities are endless. If you are like me you probably have the basics and just need to find those “statement pieces.” I found this necklace on Etsy and I love it. 


    3. Cold Sholders 

    So popular these days—don’t fight it. Just do it. I firmly believe this is a fashion trend that anyone can pull off. My opinion of course. There are dresses and shirts but either way I think it’s a win. Another bonus is these shirts stay in place – no fuss.  Sold. 

    4. Shirts w/wording 
    I love a good t-shirt and lucky for me they are trendy right now. I have a t-shirt that says            “Gangsta Rap Makes Me Feel Invincible.”  I also have one that says ” But First, Coffee.” This could not be more true. Does anyone else feel like they can’t function without a cup of coffee first??? This girl does. Any other mamas like Rap?? Haha😎


    5. Wedges

    I have never really been in love with wedges. But I was open minded and willing to give them a shot- everything deserves a second chance;) I found that I prefer the wedges that just have the wedge in the heel and not thru the toe. I recently found these Merona wedges at Target and they have been my go to lately. So cute and comfortable!! Comfort is key when you have a toddler. 


    What are your fashion favorites right now? Tell me!!

    Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots💗

    Disclaimer- All picks and thoughts are my own and I’m receiving no financial compensation

    Don’t Dream About It, Be About It 

    I do a ton of online dream shopping. For those of you who aren’t familiar, it’s when you put things in your online cart but never get around to buying them. It might be because you can’t afford it, don’t really need it, got distracted by your 2 year old, and the list of reasons goes on and on. If you are guilty of this then you know what comes next- about 20 emails from various online stores reminding you that you still have “items in your cart.” Yea…. about that….I was just pretending. But seriously, I am trying to better with my finances. Does anyone else do this?? I’m curious. I’m weird. I might need an intervention. Moving on to things that don’t involve me embarrassing myself.

    If you’ve been following my blogs you may have noticed a theme. I love brand named fashion but I can’t always make that business happen. And while I love Target, I needed to branch out.  So let’s talk Nordstrom. We don’t have a Nordstrom in Iowa (sad face). We do have a Nordstrom Rack and it’s great, but it’s not the same. So online shopping it is. Nordstrom has a surplus of beautiful high end fashion brands, but it also has some really affordable options as well. I’ve found brands like B.P, Street Level, Soprano, Ten-Sixty Sherman, and Sweet Bella. I love these brands and the prices.!! Plus, Nordstrom offers free shipping and returns!!! I can purchase these items, while remaining fiscally responsible and avoiding mass emails. So, if you’re in the market for some new summer looks/accessories give these brands a try. My picks are listed below along with the links to get to them:)  Enjoy!!!

    Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots xoxo

    Disclaimer – All picks and opinions are my own. I am receiving no financial compensation and am in no way affiliated with Nordstrom.



    http://m.shop.nordstrom.com/s/bp-cold-shoulder-top/4513243?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&fashioncolor=DESTROY%20RINSE%20WASH

     

    http://m.shop.nordstrom.com/s/bp-stone-fringe-pendant-necklace/4335337?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&fashioncolor=BLACK

     

     


    http://m.shop.nordstrom.com/s/street-level-slouchy-faux-leather-tote-with-pouch/4688369?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&fashioncolor=BROWN

     

     

    http://m.shop.nordstrom.com/s/soprano-ruffle-surplice-dress/4624491?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&fashioncolor=RED

     

     


    http://m.shop.nordstrom.com/s/ten-sixty-sherman-one-shoulder-ruffle-romper/4568307?origin=category-personalizedsort&fashioncolor=BLACK

     

     


    http://m.shop.nordstrom.com/s/delfonics-quitterie-medium-faux-leather-pouch/4546205?origin=coordinating-4546205-60151155-4-MOBI_FTR-recbot-recently_viewed_hybrid_v3&recs_placement=MOBI_FTR&recs_strategy=recently_viewed_hybrid_v3&recs_source=recbot&recs_page_type=category